Dominick Cruz, a two-time UFC bantamweight champion, retired due to recurring shoulder injuries, foregoing a potential fight with Rob Font, and is now considering coaching after being inspired by young fighters in Mexico City.
Dominick Cruz had been wrestling with the idea of retirement for a while, but ultimately, his body made the decision for him. The two-time UFC bantamweight champion, destined for the Hall of Fame, recently announced the end of his illustrious 20-year career. Injuries plagued the latter part of his journey, leading to his withdrawal from a potential farewell fight against Rob Font at UFC Seattle on Feb. 22.
During an appearance on The Anik & Florian Podcast, Cruz shared insights into his decision-making process. "I had one dislocation about eight weeks prior to this recent one," he explained, noting how it altered his timeline. He felt fit and fast, but then reality struck when his shoulder gave out again. After six weeks of rehab and sparring with top fighters like Jeremy Stephens, Cruz felt confident enough to book the fight.
Cruz elaborated on why he accepted the bout with Font. "I’m not going to get in better shape," he thought. Despite his optimism before the second dislocation, he knew time was running out. Apologizing to Font, Cruz acknowledged the ripple effect of withdrawing from a fight: disappointing fans and fellow fighters alike.
Preparing for Font, Cruz modified his training to protect his shoulder. Yet, fate had other plans. While practicing a routine wrestling move—a technique he’d executed countless times—his shoulder popped out again. This time was different; it didn’t slide back easily as it had before.
"The pain was excruciating," Cruz recalled of the incident that left him in agony for over an hour. His arm even turned an alarming shade as he waited in traffic en route to the hospital. There, doctors struggled to reposition it without causing further nerve damage.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Cruz admitted it changed his perspective on continuing to fight. "I always say I deserve this kind of pain," he mused, acknowledging it as a harsh teacher. With tendons damaged and shoulders prone to dislocation, Cruz realized it was time to prioritize long-term health over a storybook ending.
As he approached 40, Cruz weighed the risks against potential rewards. If offered a substantial payday, maybe he’d reconsider stepping into the octagon again—but only if it was worth risking a compromised arm.
Though uncertain about becoming a full-time coach, Cruz found inspiration working with young fighters in Mexico City alongside Eric Del Fierro. "It’s inspiring for me," he said, seeing himself in their hungry eyes and relentless drive.
Being around these up-and-coming prospects rekindled something in Cruz; it’s what keeps him feeling alive and connected to the sport he loves so dearly. And so, while he may have hung up his gloves competitively, he’s still very much part of the MMA world—just in a different capacity now.